Be Food Smart - Handy New App by Change4life

​​​The UK consumes nearly three times more sugar than the maximum daily recommendation. To tackle this Change4Life have developed the Be Food Smart app – with a simple scan families can see what's in their food and drinks, along with some handy hints and tips!

The app has been developed to help parents see how much sugar is contained in everyday food and drink. For example, a 43g chocolate bar contains six cubes of sugar, a 200ml juice drink contains over five cubes and there are nine sugar cubes in a can of cola, instantly taking children up to or over their recommended maximum for the day.

Research has shown that some families don't know how much sugar, saturated fat and salt is in their food - which means that millions of kids are eating way too much of it.

Dr Marc Rowland local GP and CCG Clinical Chair said: "With January typically being a time when people think about lifestyle changes, we want to help Lewisham residents learn about what might be hidden in their food.

"Too much sugar in the diet is a big concern, some children consume triple the recommended amount. This campaign highlights how much sugar, salt and fat is contained within our food. It also gives families the opportunity to access easy ideas for tastier, healthier meals."

Even small changes to your daily routines, leisure activities and eating habits can make a big difference to the health and well-being of your whole family. Increased physical activity, maintaining healthy weight and eating a balanced diet can not only prevent illness but improve your mood, confidence, sleep and concentration.

For inspiration on healthy eating such as tips on cutting back fat and for exclusive family recipes sign up to Change4Life via www.nhs.uk/befoodsmart